Android 15 Developer Preview Brings Satellite Connectivity, Better Cover Screen Support, More

Google has just released the second developer preview for Android 15, introducing the much-anticipated support for satellite connectivity along with enhancements.

These developer-centric betas serve as testing grounds for features expected to be included in the final public release of Android 15 slated for later this year.

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Google has just released the second developer preview for Android 15, introducing the much-anticipated support for satellite connectivity along with enhancements to contactless payments, improved cover screen support, multi-language recognition, volume consistency and PDF interaction within apps, among other useful features. Additionally, the reliability of one-tap contactless payments is being enhanced for applications making use of NFC technology. Furthermore, the multi-language audio recognition introduced in Android 14 is undergoing refinement to prevent the omission of words when users switch between languages.

These developer-centric betas serve as testing grounds for features expected to be included in the final public release of Android 15 slated for later this year. Google is aiming to make public beta versions available for testing between April and July.

New Features In Android 15 Developer Preview

Satellite connectivity support: In the latest update, Android 15 brings official support for satellite connectivity, integrating UI elements to ensure a seamless user experience across satellite networks. This expanded support is not limited to the US market, potentially allowing other providers to offer satellite services on a global scale. Furthermore, applications now have the capability to detect when a device is linked to a satellite, thereby improving awareness when complete network services are inaccessible. Moreover, the update enables SMS and preloaded RCS applications to employ satellite connectivity for messaging functions, expanding its utility beyond emergency situations.

Better support for cover screens: Enhanced support for cover screens is now available in the Android 15 developer preview 2.. App developers have the option to declare a property, allowing their apps to be visible on the compact cover screens of compatible flip devices. Despite these screens being relatively small for full app functionality, developers can opt to accommodate them for improved user experience.

Screen record detection: Screen recording detection is a new feature introduced in Android 15, empowering applications to identify when they are being recorded. This functionality proves especially valuable for apps managing sensitive data, as it grants developers the ability to conceal content during screen recordings.

Loudness control: Loudness control is a new addition in Android 15, incorporating support for the CTA-2075 loudness standard to uphold uniform audio loudness across different content genres. By implementing this feature, users can enjoy a consistent audio experience without the need for frequent volume adjustments when transitioning between different types of content.

Audio sharing: Introducing a revamped "Audio Sharing" page within the Settings menu, simplifying the process for users to initiate and participate in Auracast sessions. Additionally, Android 15 now features built-in app archiving functionality.

HDR headroom control: Android 15 enables applications to manage HDR headroom, balancing SDR and HDR content seamlessly. This functionality prevents HDR content from overshadowing the brightness of SDR content, ensuring a harmonious viewing experience. With developers empowered to define their preferred HDR headroom, concerns regarding mixed content perception can be effectively addressed.

Built-in app archiving: In Android 15, the operating system now includes built-in app archiving functionality. This integration allows users to easily manage archiving and restoration directly within the Settings app, streamlining the process for enhanced convenience.